jaybizman Reviews

The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)

"The Last Kingdom" - Most Excellent Adventure story.

[9/10 · 18 May 2021]

From IMDB: "As Alfred the Great defends his kingdom from Norse invaders, Uhtred - born a Saxon but raised by Vikings - seeks to claim his ancestral birthright."

I've read all the novels by Bernard Cornwell on which these five series are based.

The time is around 800 AD when 'England' was but a dream of King Alfred of Wessex; in fact there were many Kings in Briton. Some not even British, but 'Danes' or Vikings. Alfred's dream was to unite the Country under one King (him of course.)

Enter a young Dane/Briton by the name of Uhtred of Bebbingburg in which today is Northumberland - N. E. England. In the novels Uhtred was much larger than our hero, but he is played well throughout these five series.

Uhtred's dream is to reclaim his rightful land and title, stolen by a relative and he joins King Arthur who promises to help, in exchange for his fealty.

If you like battles galore, sword fights, cleaved limbs and hot wimmin, then this is for you. The Danes were unbeatable, being masters of the 'Shield Wall' and it's interesting to me that the Ancient Greeks used a similar tactic 'The Phalanx' in movies like '300' or '300 Spartans', Ancient Romans used 'The Turtle', nineteenth century British troops used 'The Square' in the same way.

Guess it's true, history does repeat itself.

So for a rollicking good time, watch The Last Kingdom. Recommended.

Run On (2020–2021)

"Run On" - Another Hit from 'Shin Se-Kyung!'

[9/10 · 14 May 2021]

From IMDB: "Veering off course from his preset path, a track star follows his own pace and heart for the first time after a film translator steps into his life."

Stars: Si-wan Yim, Shin Se-Kyung, Sooyoung Choi, Tae-Oh-Kang.

Sixteen x One Hour Episodes. OK for all to view.

I watched this K-Drama purely to see the acting chops of one of Korea's most popular actresses: Shin-Se-Kyung "Ms. Oh." She caught my eye when I saw "Rookie Historian", where she played the part of a female Historian - run down by all the males, yet she was smarter, wittier and prettier than all.

In 'Run On,' Shin reprises her persona as "Ms. Oh" a translator who writes subtitles for movies. Still the same acerbic and cutting wit, who doesn't take BS from anyone. Feisty and fun. "Ms. Oh" falls for a wealthy National Team runner, much to the dislike of his father, a typical country bureaucrat - who wields an iron hand and his word is Law. So he thinks.

Second subplot involves the gorgeous and tall (for Korea) - Ms. Seo, who's sarcastic wit and put downs are breathless to behold, until she meets a "College Student" painter, "Mr. Lee." You can guess the rest.

As usual in 'hierarchal' Korea, wealthy look down on 'peasants' and older siblings and parents must be obeyed; when not, there are consequences.

There is a good supporting cast, and IMO, 16 episodes is a perfect length to flesh out the personalities and insecurities of the protagonists - give it a go, I believe you'll be pleasantly surprised. Easy 9/10 from me.

StartUp (2016–2018)

"StartUp" - A Gritty Internet Tech Series Based in Miami.

[9/10 · 11 May 2021]

From IMDB: "A desperate banker, a Haitian-American gang lord and a Cuban-American hacker are forced to work together to unwittingly create their version of the American dream - organized crime 2.0."

Stars: Adam Brody, Edi Gathegi, Otmara Marrero, Ron Perlman, Mira Sorvino.

Three Series, ten episodes each. Probably - TV MA.

This show is so much more than a bunch of people who are thrown together to create an Internet Tech StartUp.

Miami (The Magic City) is shown, warts and all. In one area 'South Beach', you have the rich and famous, in Little Haiti you have the opposite - drug dealing and despair. The Cubans were let in by the US Gov't, the Haitians were asked to return to their homeland, many didn't - now their resources are limited, and crime is rampant in their community.

Enter "Izzy" a Stanford dropout, who is a programming whiz and hacker, who's family is from Cuba.

She's working on an Internet business that could 'change the world.' Unfortunately, she's taken advantage of by an Internet Titan, backed by The Russian Mob, who kicks her out of her own business.

Enter, a crooked FBI Agent who blackmails money launderers into given him 50% of their ill gotten gains or go to Jail, who wants a piece of the action.

Next is a preppy guy - banker Nick, 'South Beach' who is always looking for business opportunities and financiers, and together Izzy, Ronnie (Haitian Crime Lord) and Nick - try to create a noble High Tech biz.

So many obstacles are put in their way: Nefarious businessmen, Russian hitmen - and finally, a mysterious former CIA Black Ops Agent, who is not who she represents herself to be - played by Mira Sorvino.

Ron Perlman enters the fray in Series Two - and he makes his presence known, providing seed money and advice. Ron steals every scene he's in.

All in all, I'd say this was one of the most innovative and interesting TV Series that I've watched in many a long time. Recommended, and yes - I'm hoping for a Series Four!

Rampage: President Down (2016)

"Rampage: President Down." - Hmmm ...

[5/10 · 7 May 2021]

From IMDB: "Bill Williamson returns to bring down the president of the United States and his Secret Service detail. "

Director: Uwe Boll Writers: Uwe Boll, Brendan Fletcher Stars: Brendan Fletcher, Bruce Blain, Loretta Walsh.

I have to admit that when I saw the 'Director' was Uwe Boll, my heart sank.

Why? Because (let's just say) his movies over the last two decades have lacked a few things: Decent plot, good actors, Direction and Cinematography.

However, IF the weather is bad, or (like me) you've kinda watched much that is good on Streaming - you may give this a go - with reservations.

Candidly after our main Protagonist recited his 'manifesto', I fast forwarded to the action - and there was some. Basically a 'Cat and Mouse' with The Federales, and how his Army training helped him to avoid same; with loud results.

To say much more would give away the plot (there is a bit of one, yes), so grab the popcorn, curl up and take your chances, this may/not be for you.

Warrior (2019–2023)

"Warrior" - Riveting 'Adult' Period Drama.

[9/10 · 5 May 2021]

From IMDB: "During the Tong Wars in the late 1800s, Ah Sahm, a martial arts prodigy from China, immigrates to San Francisco and becomes a hatchet man for the most powerful tong in Chinatown."

Stars: Andrew Koji, Olivia Cheng, Jason Tobin.

21 x 60 min episodes. Two Series. TV MA (Full frontal nudity.)

What can I say that 10,000 others haven't written already?

Believe it or not, this series was made in South Africa - not San Fran.

However the set designers should be applauded as they have done a bang up job of replicating what could be a ChinaTown back in the 1800's.

Seemingly from the thoughts/writings of Bruce Lee, whose vision actually became the TV series 'Kung Fu' starring David Carradine and not Bruce.

Our main protagonist 'Ah Sahm' kinda looks, walks, talks and stands like Bruce, but thereafter puts his own stamp on the fights. Many character names from Bruce's movies appear here too.

Much of the battle is between the locals and Chinese migrants, who will work much cheaper - and this sparks fury. The language used by both sides is totally un-PC or acceptable these days, but it gives you the mood instantly.

So we have the (sometimes) crooked local police led by 'Big Bill', who will use any and every tactic to achieve his desired result; versus the 'Tongs' (Chinese gangs) who fight both the police and themselves.

Add in a hot local Brothel keeper 'Ah Toy', who looks after her girls; 'Mei lin' (hot Tong leader), lying Politicians, crooked Mayor - and the scene is set for mayhem.

To me it's a cross between Once Upon a Time in China and Once Upon a Time in America. Ah Sahm's fights are bloody and very realistic. Best action I've seen in many a year, as he fights to both prove himself and protect his people.

IF you can handle the 'language', nudity, sex scenes galore and brutality - this two series (soon to be a third, by HBO Max - announced April 2021) is for you. All in a Magnus Opus and one in which a vast amount of work went in to.

Shadow and Bone (2021–2023)

"Shadow and Bone" - Interesting concept.

[8/10 · 2 May 2021]

From IMDB:

"Dark forces conspire against orphan mapmaker Alina Starkov when she unleashes an extraordinary power that could change the fate of her war-torn world. "

Stars: Jessie Mei Li, Ben Barnes, Archie Renaux.

Eight 45 min episodes make for just enough time, IMO, to flesh out the story and the characters. Most of the actors I've never heard of.

Set in a kind of retro-bizarro world resembling Tsarist Russia with a dose of Sci-Fi and SteamPunk thrown in.

Basically, as I see it, the old 'good versus evil' story, with one side being the 'Dark' side versus an Orphaned girl who possesses a gift, the good 'Light' side. Th first can summon evil, the latter (literally) the Sun.

Envelope this within two armies constantly fighting, an engaging love-story going back decades and a troupe of n'er do-wells (The Crows), and you have a rollicking, swashbuckling adventure.

I've never read the books but I'm looking forward to doing so, as well as a second series - the ending is set up for one. Recommended.

Giri/Haji (2019)

"Giri/Haji" - Adult, Japanese/British movie.

[8/10 · 29 April 2021]

From IMDB: "A detective from Tokyo scours London for his missing brother, who's been involved with the Yakuza and accused of murder.

Stars: Takehiro Hira, Sophia Brown, Charlie Creed-Miles"

Eight x 60 mins episodes. TV MA.

A change from the usual Yakuza (gangster) Japan based movies.

Begins in Japan then swiftly moves to London, UK.

So many twists and turns here. Some viewers may know a bit about The Mafia, perhaps even the Yakuza - but not too many understand the London (East End) hard-men. (Check out movie The Kray's as an example - OR The Long Good Friday.) These guys were every bit as ruthless, and could give the aforementioned a run for their money.

Enter a Detective from Japan, sent by his Superior to find his wayward bro (Yuto), who is wanted by both the Japanese Police and The Yakuza.

Let's just say that a Yakuza 'Shin' (Boss) didn't like the way Yuto acted with his daughter, the hot and sexy 'Eiko.' And the hunt is on to (mostly) rainy London.

The Japanese Ladies are a feisty group, from a wife, a Mother In Law and a Mother, and they give the movie some sparkle. Add in an eclectic bunch of characters from Soho District (Central London), crooked cops and a sweet Scottish female Officer (Sarah) - and IMO, you have a great, short, action packed series.

So sit back and enjoy - something a bit different, but good viewing.

The Baker and the Beauty (2020)

"The Baker and The Beauty" - Pretty Good!

[8/10 · 21 April 2021]

From IMDB: "A blue-collar baker strikes up a relationship with an international superstar. US version of the Israeli romantic comedy series 'The Baker and the Beauty'."

Stars: Victor Rasuk, Nathalie Kelley, Dan Bucatinsky, Michelle Veintimilla, Lisa Vidal.

Made in Miami, FL and many scenes were filmed at Calle Ocho (Eighth St.) in Little Havana. You can see the Red Roosters (about 6ft tall) that are sprinkled throughout the area.

"Family is more important than anything" - and follows the ups and downs of the Garcia Clan and their Bakery. Three HOT ladies: Nathalie Kelley as Fashionista 'Noa', Michelle Veintimilla as Real Estate Agent 'Vanessa' and Lisa Vidal as Mrs. Garcia, 'Mari' (almost Sophia Vergara's twin!)

Just like in every other Telenovela, you have family feuds, jealousy, back stabbing - and ultimately everything works out as it should. Only '9' 45 min episodes, so you can binge-watch in one day ... and unlike a dozen other Telenovela's I've watched, this show is 95% in English - so no needs for subs.

All and all some good family viewing. Muy bueno! Easy 8/10.

Vincenzo (2021)

"Vincenzo" - Well Worth A Watch...

[8/10 · 18 April 2021]

From IMDB: "During a visit to his motherland, a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer gives an unrivaled conglomerate a taste of its own medicine with a side of justice."

This reminds me very much about the Mexican telenovela - ''El Dragon, except this time around it's not a Mexican guy with Samurai skills returning home from Japan, but a Korean lawyer who is quite adapt at fisticuffs himself, returning from Italy. In fact he was a Mafia Consigliere or Advisor.

He wears the best Italian clothing, which makes Vincenzo "Cassanova" (as people call him) stand out in modern day Seoul. There's dueling law firms, crazy gangsters, nutty tenants in a building with a 'secret' - and Vincenzo is ably assisted by the gorgeous and feisty "Ms. Hong" - also a lawyer.

I really enjoyed watching this -12 x '2 hr' episodes so far; awaiting more next week, and if you want to have a good nights viewing, give this a go.

Sniper: Ghost Shooter (2016 Video)

"Sniper: Ghost Shooter" - Much Better Than I Expected.

[7/10 · 15 April 2021]

From IMDB - "Snipers ordered to protect a gas pipeline from terrorists suspect a security breach when they're targeted by a ghost shooter who knows their location."

This, IMO, is a pretty good action movie. Once it gets going it moves along at a pretty crackling case. Basically a unit of US Army snipers on various duties in and around Turkey.

Great scenery and the 'what' in the plot is ... how are the Insurgents able to track their positions, making them sitting ducks? Watch and see for yourself.

So although no Oscar winner - it's worthy of a 7/10.

Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)

"Godzilla vs. Kong" - Pretty Good Actually.

[8/10 · 14 April 2021]

First off, the PG-13 is well earned, especially for the ending fight scenes alone.

To say that CGI has advanced such that the protagonists now look more lifelike, ferocious and menacing - may be an understatement. So watch out for 'the kiddies.'

I've watched this Monsterverse trope thrice and this was set up admirably, IMO, by the latest Kong: Skull Island and the previous Godzilla: King Of the Monsters. In Skull Island several mentions were made of "Kong still growing", because a little research will tell you that up until SI, Kong was shorter than Gojira (Japanese) by about forty feet - now they are the same height.

The Producers have finally figured that you can't wait for an hour, of a two hour movie, to show the Kaiju's (monsters) and we are treated to a sighting of Kong in the first few minutes, then a pretty good battle between the enemies fairly early on. However, the second half is by far the best.

In Godzilla: King of The Monsters, Millie Bobby Brown was an integral part (paid $1M) but in this, she was sidelined to a minor role (still paid $3M), but IMO, the new standout was multi-generational deaf girl, Kaylee Hottle (about 8 yrs old) - who by dint of her situation can convey emotions by just a few movements of her face.

Eiza Gonzalez ticked off Kong one too many times, and received her just dessert.

Finally the two battle it out in an epic bout, similar to another Kong; "King Kong Bundy" and "Andre the Giant" of WWE with a touch of Mike Tyson thrown in. Candidly - at the 'double team' near the end I almost expected 'Vince McMahon' to have a cameo ... lol.

Who won or "falls?"... Watch and see. I upgraded to HBO Max just for this.

Well worth your time if you are a fan and there will be more Monsterverse movies in the near future. Watch and see.

Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)

"Wonder Woman 1984" - Watched this 3 times, before I got it.

[8/10 · 11 April 2021]

I absolutely loved the FIRST WW - but (and I'm trying hard here) did NOT like this iteration at first showing. I gave it a 5/10.

To me plusses were the Scots lass who played the young Diana in the first movie (who did most of the stunts) reprising her role, as well as Diana's mom and Robin Wright from WW 2017. Pedro Pascal (The Great Wall) and Kristen Wiig (Minerva) did a great job here. Chris Pine was 'resurrected' by a 'wish.'

I believe there is so much going on here, from flashbacks to small details that the viewer (me) gets confused and doesn't quite get it at first- so IF you can, rewatch this (for me three times now) and I'll bet you'll end up liking it. Possibly too clever by half. My latest rating is updated to 8/10.

Filinta (2014–2016)

"Filinta" - Unique and Quite Brilliant.

[9/10 · 31 March 2021]

From IMDB: "The story based on 1800's era of ottoman empire, the story round a Mustafa named detective who is a local police officer. He prove his innocence blamed by their enemy. Further he fights and protects his empire by Freemason powers." Stars: Cem Uçan, Onur Tuna, Kamil Güler.

I've now watched around seven productions from Turkey, with cc's.

They make amazing TV series. One of my fave's was 'Ertugrul Resurrection' a 5 year, 150 part extravaganza. Another was 'The Magnificent Century', around 140 episodes. And here is another magnus opus, IMO.

'Filinta' is an 1800's detective in Istanbul. Named after his huge 'flint' locked, multi-barreled pistol (shades of Dirty Harry here.) He, of course, is a good, God fearing man who is only interested in 'Justice.' Which of course makes him a target for all kinds of fraudsters, gangsters, opportunists and Foreign Governments who want to overthrow The Ottoman Empire. His life is not easy.

I have finished the first (of two) Series, some 62 x 45 minute episodes.

With a second of the same length to go.

As an aficionado of movies for several decades, it was amazing to me to see many scenes that were 'lifted' from Western movies:- The Godfather, The Bourne trilogy, and yes, Dirty Harry. With a Turkish twist.

Throw in: Secret Societies, corrupt Bankers, bribed Gov't officials, Foreign Powers, Psycho bandits and bodyguards (one especially), obsessed and hate-filled father - a Love Affair that ... (well, watch and see) - and you have a great, IMO, thrill a minute, excellent Turkish TV show. Highly recommended.

Syucheu (2018)

"Syucheu" (Suits) - Korean Version.

[8/10 · 23 March 2021]

From IMDB: "Hotshot lawyer Choi Kang Seok is known as the most talented closer at the prestigious Kang and Ham Law Firm. Go Yeon Woo has a photographic memory and a high IQ. Having dreamed of becoming an Attorney."

Creator: Aaron Korsh Stars: Jang Dong-Gun, Park Hyung-Sik, Gwi-hwa Choi .

16 One Hour Episodes based on the noted CBS drama of the same name. (The US/Canadian version had Meghan Markle in it.)

Oh what a tangled web we weave... Best law firm 'Kang & Ham' brings in a young genius (with a Photographic Memory) to work with their 'Ace.' Only one problem... a BIG one at that. Watch and see.

Add in the usual feuding Partners, jealous co-workers, scheming ex-Partner, corrupt Prosecutors, hot girls - and you have yourself a Korean TeleNovella.

I have to say that IMO the acting was superb, good episodic storyline and well worth your time, without any gratuitous sex and violence. Recommended.

Unit 42 (2017–2019)

"Unit 42" - A Rare Gem Of a Show.

[8/10 · 22 March 2021]

From IMDB: "While having to raise his three children on his own, Inspector Sam Leroy joins Brussels' Cyber Crime Unit. Confronted with new codes, he must collaborate with Billie Vebber, a former hacker who covertly pursues objectives of her own."

Stars: Patrick Ridremont, Constance Gay, Tom Audenaert .

There are two Series available, but as of now Netflix USA has only one, Ten episodes. Rated MA.

I'll begin by saying that there is quite a bit of nudity, especially in the first few episodes. Not gratuitous, but dead bodies on a morgue slab. So no kids to see. Episode nine was very graphic, with torture and dismemberment.

To me the standout was Constance Gay aka Billie, who has great IT and hacker skills. She's a bit of a tomboy, and fits in well with the Cyber Crime crew. Speaking of, Head, Sam, recently lost his wife - and she appears as an apparition in many episodes.

Candidly... this Belgium made Series has the actors speaking French (rather than Flemish) which I'm guessing is for a wider audience. Once it get's going - it's at a cracking pace. Recommended.

Savages (I) (2012)

"Savages" - So, so...

[6/10 · 17 March 2021]

From IMDB: " Pot growers Ben and Chon face off against the Mexican drug cartel who kidnapped their shared girlfriend. " Director: Oliver Stone. Stars: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Taylor Kitsch, Blake Lively.

First off, I don't understand why there is so much hate for a 26 yr old Blake Lively - she played the part of a sexy, drug addled GF, perfectly.

What the IMDB outline doesn't say, is that the "Mexican Cartels" depicted here must be the most ruthless and bloodthirsty - ever. It's their way, or your dead, basically.

The two buddies try to outthink and outwit the Cartel, who with a menacing Benicio Del Toro as an Enforcer, have their own ideas.

La Jefa, Salma Hayek finds out the guys' "weakness" which is Blake Lively as "O" - and kidnaps her. The Gents are trying to rescue, with a DEA Agent played by John Travolta (with less and less folicles) - John is asked: "wassup with the hair?" LOL.

The movie is fairly formulaic and if you just want to sit back and enjoy a bunch of WeedHeads and Cartels shooting each other up, go for it.

Stone won't win any Oscars here, but I've seen worse.

From Paris with Love (2010)

"From Paris With Love" - Wax On, Wax Off!

[8/10 · 15 March 2021]

From IMDB: In Paris, a young employee in the office of the US Ambassador hooks up with an American spy looking to stop a terrorist attack in the city. Director: Pierre Morel Writers: Adi Hasak (screenplay), Luc Besson (story) Stars: John Travolta, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Kasia Smutniak.

What can I say? Travolta *Charlie Wax) plays an OTT CIA type along with naïve Embassy Officer Reese. Basically a buddy-movie full of every cliche you can find.

IF you liked Travolta in (say) Pulp Fiction, you'll love him here, as he rampages thru Paris looking to take down a Crime/Drug Ring. Totally UN-PC and reliving his PF love of burgers - "A Royale with cheese", a cheese burger.

Story begins and ends with Reese's hot girlfriend and he has to grow up fast. Luc Besson (Transporter) writes a fast paced movie and when it gets going, it never stops. Worth viewing for the car chases, shoot em ups and fisticuffs alone. Travolta shines here and both Besson and Travolta's wife at the time, Kelly Preston (RIP) have cameo's. Recommended.

I Am Wrath (2016)

"I Am Wrath" - Formulaic Movie.

[6/10 · 14 March 2021]

From IMDB: "Stanley Hill opens a can of brutal vengeance on the thugs who murdered his wife and the corrupt cops who are protecting them."

Stars: John Travolta, Christopher Meloni, Amanda Schull.

In a nutshell, this is a buddy movie between Chris and John, who served together in Black Op's - way back when. So they are pretty good with guns. Throw in shades of Death Wish, crooked cops and corrupt Politicians, and you get the idea.

Travolta's wife is killed, seemingly at random; however later on John finds out the real reason and goes on the rampage, ably backed up by Meloni. The 'ending' may surprise you.

Not bad, not original, but worth 90 mins of your time.

Shadow (2018)

"Shadow" - unique and brilliant.

[9/10 · 12 March 2021]

From IMDB: "Life and intrigue in an ancient Chinese court." Director: Yimou Zhang. Stars: Chao Deng, Li Sun, Ryan Zheng.

I must have watched 50 Wuxia (kung-Fu) type movies, but nothing like Shadow. Director Yimou Zhang (Hero, Fearless) rarely disappoints, and this time, IMO, he over produces a fantastic story. We have a crazy drunk King, his feisty sister, an ex General hiding in a cave with wife - and his 'Shadow'.

Stars Chao Deng, Li Sun are husband and wife in real life - unsure if that makes acting easier between them or not; a plot is hatched by the hermit General, but he forgets that every man wants to be the top dog in life.

Some amazing optics with metal umbrellas, fights between an unbeatable foe and Shadow as well as an insurrection are seen.

The ending may leave you spellbound. Recommended and an easy 9/10.

The Saint (2017 TV Movie)

"The Saint" - I'm almost speechless.

[5/10 · 11 March 2021]

From IMDB: "International master thief, Simon Templar, also known as The Saint, is tasked to find a man's kidnapped daughter. In addition to evading the authorities, Simon must face a dangerous adversary from his past."

Stars: Adam Rayner, Eliza Dushku, Ian Ogilvy.

There is, IMO, only ONE 'Saint' and that is the late, great Sir Roger Moore (RIP.) He makes a very brief appearance at the end, and passed away soon thereafter.

Appearances by another past 'Saint' - Ian Ogilvy, and now today'd Adam Rayner. I won't mention (ok, just a tad) a 'Saint' misfire by Val Kilmer, years ago.

Did I say, there's ONLY 'One Saint'? - This iteration tries hard, Eliza does a good job, but it's IMO, like a comic book version of the original. No wonder it's debut was put off for years. The campy suave James Bond type played by Adam misses the mark and the inept FBI Agents don't add much except humor, unintended perhaps.

Watch, if there is bad weather or if you're forced to. A very pale copy of the original. I struggle to give it 5/10.

The Equalizer 2 (2018)

"The Equalizer 2" - almost as good as the first.

[8/10 · 11 March 2021]

From IMDB: "Robert McCall serves an unflinching justice for the exploited and oppressed, but how far will he go when that is someone he loves? "

Stars: Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Ashton Sanders.

I'm old enough to remember the very first "Equalizer", a five year run of an American TV series (1985-89) starring British actor Edward Woodward, as 'Robert McCall'. He would place ads in newspapers asking 'do you need help?' Solving crimes while driving his Jaguar XJ6 auto.

Fast forward to 2014 for The Equalizer (#1), and now in 2018, this iteration - The Equalizer 2. Starring Denzel Washington as 'Robert McCall', the retired Spec-Ops soldier who helps out those in distress, family or friend.

He is up against his old army 'buddies', who now want to take him out - because he knows too much from their misdeeds in the past. In the meantime he serves a s a mentor to a wayward neighbors child. You'll see.

Pretty good hand-to-hand from Denzel (he was trained by a pro MMA fighter) and you can guess the end fight- in a hurricane no less. Never seen that before.

Pretty good way to spend 90+ minutes. There is talk of a sequel, #3.

Sentinelle (2021)

"Sentinelle" - Typical French Made Movie.

[7/10 · 7 March 2021]

From IMDB: "Transferred home after a traumatizing combat mission, a trained French soldier uses her lethal skills to hunt down the man who hurt her sister. " Stars: Olga Kurylenko, Marilyn Lima, Michel Nabokoff.

For those looking for Hollywood gloss and glamor, fuggedabout it. This is clearly an art house, low budget affair - but is carried well, IMO, by the talented Olga Kurylenko; in real life, a poor Ukrainian girl who became a model, then a Bond Girl, and now has the acting chops she needs.

These 1/10's are absurd. Again, this is a slow burning 'revenge' movie, but it gets going and the bad guys get their comeuppance. Olga can kick major azz when required and the latter half is quite thrilling, so hang in there while it builds - you will be happy that you did.

Killers (2010)

"Killers" - Not a bad way to spend 90 minutes.

[6/10 · 4 March 2021]

From IMDB: "A vacationing woman meets her ideal man, leading to a swift marriage. Back at home, however, their idyllic life is upset when they discover their neighbors could be assassins who have been contracted to kill the couple.."

Starring the gorgeous Katherine Heigl and the handsome Aston Kutcher, and the be-mustached Tom Selleck.

I have liked Aston since his hit 'What Happens in Vegas" movie with the great comedic actress - Cameron Diaz. Katherine I first saw in Steven Seagal's movie, Under Siege2, way back, when.

Beautiful scenery in Nice, France and the rest is pretty formulaic. To me the first half was the best, in the second just about everyone they know is out to get them - which is a tad far fetched, but then it is a romantic 'comedy.'

Don't think, just sit back and enjoy.

I Hear You (2019– )

"I Hear You" - Cute, Fun C' Rom Com.

[8/10 · 26 February 2021]

From IMDB: "An aloof violin maker strikes up a relationship with a sweet girl next door after they are unexpectedly cast in a reality-dating show." Stars: Lusi Zhao, Riley Wang, Gratitude Dai. 24 x 1 hour episodes.

At first I was a little mad at the producers of this - they paired a six foot tall, 30 yr old 'ice in his blood' male with a five foot short, 22 year old 'feisty' girl; as prospective love partners in a Reality TV Dating show. He is a maker of violins, she is an inspiring voice-over actress. Frankly I thought her friend (in the show) Lizi was more age and height appropriate - but they being two 'misfits' was the whole premise here.

However as things wore on, they both showed their true colors and won me over; the male's heart began to melt and the girl (real cute) was funny and had about 100 facial expressions, also her 'voices' were quite well done. You can guess the rest. After all, it is a romantic comedy.

Of course NO Rom-Com would be complete without a jealous female rival, and there's one here.

Probably best for teenagers thru millennials. IMO Just sit back and go with the flow. Ultimately quite an enjoyable and fun way to spend some time. I give it an 8/10.

The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)

"The King: Eternal Monarch " - Confusing to begin, then ultimately exhilarating.

[9/10 · 24 February 2021]

The King: Youngwonui Gunjoo (original title) TV-14. 16 episodes x 1h 10min. Fantasy, Mystery, Romance. TV Series (2020)

From IMDB: "A modern-day Korean emperor passes through a mysterious portal and into a parallel world, where he encounters a feisty police detective. Stars: Lee Min-Ho, Kim Go-eun, Woo Do-Hwan.

Where to begin? I must have watched just about every K'Drama/Rom-Com on Netflix and prefer the historical Costume Drama's, however this Series which is modern, in part Sci-Fi, Time Travelling and about TWO Worlds from parallel Universes is totally enthralling.

The first episode is a tad convoluted and difficult to comprehend, but focus and eventually it sets the scene for the next 16 episodes.

Best parts, IMO, are when the two main protagonists get together and travel to the TWO Corea's/Korea's. Kim Go-eun plays a seasoned female police LT, with a "Black Belt" in Taekwondo, who meets a wayward guy on a horse and first wants to arrest him, but as you can imagine things change.

Throw in a handsome King, traitorous relatives, beautiful scenery and score - and by the last few episodes you'll be reaching for your tissues.

Again, this series takes some work and focus (there's so much going on) but you'll be rewarded. I give this an easy 9/10.